Wiring Information and Cable Compatibility

APRS Tracker/TNC Products

The Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a digital communications system for the exchange of position data, map objects, short text messages, and other tactical data. Unlike most automatic vehicle location (AVL) systems, APRS is designed as a peer-to-peer system to improve situational awareness, not just to send position data back to a central dispatch center.

Extensive networks of digital repeaters and Internet gateways exist throughout Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and other regions throughout the world. These networks operate on the amateur radio bands, and are open to all licensed amateur radio operators. Several websites provide web-based access to APRS data (e.g., aprs.fi and OpenAPRS), and numerous mapping applications such as Xastir are available free or for a modest fee.

While the public APRS network is limited to amateur use, the APRS protocol, most APRS hardware, and many APRS mapping programs can be used for commercial purposes, subject of course to normal radio licensing requirements. Implementing a private APRS network typically requires more design and integration effort than the deployment of a turnkey AVL system, but APRS offers unparalleled flexibility in equipment selection and network design, along with lower hardware cost and no subscription fees.

OpenTracker Series

The original OpenTracker was based on the MC908KX8 microcontroller. The series includes the OT1, OT1x, and OT1m.

OpenTracker+ Series

Tracker2 Series

The Tracker2 series expanded on the OpenTracker+ series and added a command console, dual serial ports, remote command capability, digipeating, and many more functions. The series was based on the MC908AP64 microcontroller.

Tracker3 Series and OpenTracker USB

The Tracker3 improves on the Tracker2 with USB support and a more capable 32-bit processor. The OpenTracker USB shares most of the Tracker3's capabilities and source code, but runs on a smaller 8-bit microcontroller.